After a tumultuous early spring in most of the country, it’s—knock on wood—finally time to think about summer. While many of us daydream about warm days and starry nights spent lounging on the dock outside the family cabin, there’s always some work to be done first. Winter takes a toll on your cabin, so as you open it up this season, follow these four steps, and you’ll be sitting around the campfire in no time.
- Make a plan, Stan. Before you head up north, make a list of the tasks you'll need to check off. These items can include things like boat registration, dock installation and turning on any services you may have suspended during the winter, such as electricity, water or trash. Do you use propane for your fireplace, appliances or backup generator? Refill your tank now for the coming season and be sure to schedule delivery while you are at your property so a licensed professional can ignite pilot lights and check for any potential damage or leaks.
- Take a hike. When you arrive at your property, walk around outside and look carefully for any damage or potential trouble spots. In addition to the cabin, be sure to look at any other structures, like your garage and propane fuel tank. Check the tank for any signs of damage and make sure it is free of brush, leaves or other debris that may have accumulated during the winter. Check for broken windows and deck boards on your cabin, and don't forget to look for broken or hanging tree branches, which can be a fire hazard and may cause issues during summer storms. Also keep an eye out for squirrel holes and other signs of animal damage, which can indicate uninvited guests that will need to be shown the door.
- Deal with ALL your water! Simply turning the water on is only half the job. First, be sure to reconnect pipes and prime the pump. Also, don't forget to fill your water heater before turning on your propane, or you could burn it out, resulting in a costly replacement.
- Go on a supply run. Finally, once all the hard work is done, it's time to stock up. Check the expiration dates on perishables such as food and sunscreen (which can quickly lose potency) and replace the items that are out of date. Items like shampoo, conditioner and lotion may also need to be purchased. And make sure you have enough propane in the cylinder for your grill so the first barbeque of the season goes off without a hitch.
From a fireplace that doesn't mean chopping wood all day to an insurance plan against frequent power outages, propane is a great way to upgrade your cabin this season. Learn more about all the was Cenex® propane can add comfort and convenience to your cabin.